It's been almost three years since they played a live show, they're busy at work on their (crappy) side projects, and no future plans are on the agenda. Let's get over this together and check out one of these bands...
STS9 throw mad electronic dance music in your direction. Originally from Santa Cruz, these dudes have the powerful sounds, lights, and energy to keep you dancing all night.
"Aimlessly":
6) Dr. Dog
While they might not tightly fit under the 'jamband' umbrella, these Philly boys put out one of the best releases of the year so far in We All Belong. I hear really good things about their live act, as well. And, boy oh boy, do they sound like The Beatles (in a good way).
"My Old Ways":
Chances are, if you like Phish, you don't really like Widespread Panic. Their fans can be just as annoying as any Phishhead, they haven't been the same since Michael Houser died, and their recent albums haven't been anything to speak of. The only reason Panic makes the cut, here, is Jimmy Herring. They got rid of George McConnell (good riddance) and put Mr. Herring on lead guitar. From what I understand, he is a welcome addition.
"Ain't Life Grand" w/Herring:
4) moe.
These guys have been around for almost as long as Phish and Panic, but they've been keeping fans and critics alike happy with respectable live and studio albums.
A whole recent set:
Official Site
3) The New Deal
These Canadian live electronic badasses will melt your face live. Seriously.
"Jam":
This band from Chicago is just a lot of fun and really bring the hurt live. Their studio albums are worth a listen, as well.
A whole recent set:
Maybe they're not a jamband per se, but they jam hard at their shows, which are some of the best around. Their studio albums (dare I say it?) are better than most of Phish's, too.
"Gideon":
Official Site
Honorable mentions: Yonder Mountain String Band, Tortoise, John Zorn, The Slip, Bela Fleck and the Flecktones, Ween, and the Flaming Lips.
